We examine some of the old wives’ tales that claim to be able to predict whether you’re having a boy or a girl.

1. Bump shape and size

The myth: Some say the shape of your baby bump can help with baby gender prediction. If you’re carrying your baby high and all at the front, they say, you are having a boy. If the bump is lower and more spread around the abdomen, it’s a girl.

Does it work? Unfortunately, no. Some women have bumps that look the same shape during two different pregnancies but end up with one boy and one girl!

2. Morning sickness

The myth: If you have a lot of morning sickness, you are expecting a girl. Definitely.

Does it work? You don’t need to look very far to work out that this one is a myth. One of the most famous sufferers from hyperemesis gravidarum, is the Duchess of Cambridge – who has one boy and one girl, despite being really quite ill during the early months of both pregnancies.

3. Ring or needle

The myth: Take a piece of string or sewing thread and put either your wedding ring or a needle on it. The idea is that you hang this over your bump and if the needle swings around in circles, it is a girl. If the needle or ring goes backwards and forwards, it’s a boy.

Does it work? If you hang something from a piece of string, it will probably move – so, no this method doesn’t work.

4. Your baby’s heart rate

The myth: The tale says that a faster heart rate, at around 170 beats per minute, indicates a girl, whereas a slower heart rate, at about 150 beats per minute, means a boy.

Does it work? No, because your baby’s heart rate will change throughout your pregnancy, so, this isn’t a reliable method.

5. How do you look?

The myth: If you have acne, or are looking rather tired and drained, it’s thought you’re having a girl. However, if your skin is clear and you look ‘blooming’, it’s a boy.

Does it work? Very few women look “blooming” throughout the nine months of their pregnancy – so, don’t panic! This myth isn’t reliable either.

So, what do we think? These old wives tales for baby gender are exactly that!

The information on this website is for general information and it is not intended as, nor should it be considered as a substitute for seeing your own GP, midwife or healthcare professional. You are advised to seek professional medical advice if you have any concerns or suspect you have a medical problem.